That would be the type of experience that would change your outlook on life.

Absolutely.

I guarantee you that if he has two brain cells to rub together that he doesn't go in the BC alone again. This is obviously a situation where a knowledgeable partner with gear would've likely been able to very easily recover him. The fact that someone pulled over at an overlook just happened to see him go down and actually have the presence of mind to realize that he was in trouble and to go help is just 100% pure horseshit luck.

Unfortunately, the most recent death at Berthoud Pass was very similar. Another shallow burial that likely would've resulted in a terrifying situation but a relatively easy recovery if only they'd had gear and been prepared to use it.